REDS Comeback Bid Falls Short
(HALIFAX, NS) In a re-match of last season’s Atlantic Football League Championship game, the UNB REDS fell short in a comeback against the Dalhousie Tigers, dropping the season opener 29-25.
The REDS fell behind early after the Tigers scored a touchdown in the opening quarter. UNB’s field goal unit was able to come up with a blocked extra point try and the offense stormed down the field shortly after scoring field goal to make it a 6-3 game.
Penalties plagued the REDS in the opening half, preventing them from capitalizing on solid gains made by their offense. Meanwhile, the Tigers offense was clicking on all cylinders, scoring two more touchdowns to help build their lead to 20-3.
Before the end of the half UNB’s offense began to settle in, led by quarterback Hunter Sturgeon. He scored two rushing touchdowns to help shrink the Tigers lead to 20-16.
The Tigers continued to cruise though, opening the second half by marching down the field with a red zone opportunity at hand. But, the were met by a sturdy REDS goal-line defense that stuffed the Tigers three times on the one-yard line, forcing them to turn the ball over on downs.
Near the end of the 3rd quarter, Dalhousie was able to tally another touchdown shortly after UNB’s punter was forced to take a safety, with the REDS pinned in their endzone. That gave the home team a 29-16 lead.
The REDS would not quit, and in the 4th quarter would drive the field to score a touchdown with just 2:20 left in the game and trimming the Tigers lead to 29-25.
With time winding down, the REDS were able to convert an onside kick, giving them one last chance for the win. Unfortunately, UNB came up short, turning the ball over on downs and allowing the Tigers to run out the clock.
UNB now prepares for their home opener, next weekend against the UNB Saint John Seawolves, on Saturday, at BMO Centre. Kickoff is at 1:00pm.
RECAP BY: Evan Richtsfeld/UNB Athletics
PHOTO: File